Psalm 55 (54):13Meaning & Commentary from the Church Fathers

He experienced deep turmoil in his thoughts, affected by the adversary’s voice and the sorrow of sinners. Perhaps he found himself in that proud city, the one that attempted to build the tower, the city that faced destruction and had its languages confounded. Pay attention to his internal lament in light of the perils posed by false brethren. If a foe were to insult me, I would certainly bear it; and if one who despises me raised his voice against me, boasting and trampling over me, threatening with all his might, I would surely seek refuge from him. But where can you escape from one who is everywhere? Among those who are within? Consider whether there remains an option other than to seek solitude.

If the adversary had insulted me, I would have borne it. This is appropriately directed toward the countenance of the betrayer.

The individual who adheres to the commands of the Lord is truly a friend, worthy of that title. A friend embodies unity, as true friends share a bond that should never be marred by betrayal. The Lord denounced the treachery of the traitor as particularly severe, since he repaid kindness with malice, introducing bitterness into the fellowship of friendship. Scripture declares, "You are a man of one accord with Me; you are My leader and My confidant, who has always tasted sweet food with Me" (Psalm 54:14-15). This signifies that it is intolerable for one who shares a mutual understanding to turn against the one who has shown him goodness. If an adversary were to speak ill of me, I could endure it, and I would withdraw from someone who harbors hatred... (Psalm 54:13).

What arises from individuals who harbor animosity towards each other is something I deem acceptable and manageable, since it originates from adversaries and opponents. Additionally, one can occasionally evade overt conflict.

These statements, along with those that follow, are expressed on behalf of the Lord Jesus regarding the betrayer Judas, as noted by St. Cyril and Theodoret. It has been stated that he slandered, rather than merely humiliated and falsely accused, and he blasphemed instead of simply speaking without shame and intimidating others. Judas engaged in both actions, maligning the Lord before the Jewish authorities and instigating them to seek His death. The conjunction "for" serves a narrative purpose in this context. St. Basil remarks that actions taken by foes are often viewed as straightforward and bearable; in this way, he criticizes those who, under the guise of unity, create divisions, which are difficult to escape due to the false closeness they project.

David, having presented a grievance concerning the entire city and its people, now focuses on a specific traitor. This individual may have been Ahithophel, David's most devoted friend and trusted counselor, or perhaps another noble with whom David shared a deep bond. First, he describes this person as a man of indifference, indicating that he appeared to be the friendliest and seemed to share a like spirit and heart with David. By highlighting this aspect, David emphasizes the profound betrayal. Next, he refers to him as his lord or leader, acknowledging a position of respect or authority. Additionally, he points out that they had shared in fellowship, signifying that they had dined together at the same table.

This psalm, penned by David under the guidance of the Holy Spirit, was entrusted to Asaph, the leader of his singers, so that it could be sung with understanding by all. The essence of this psalm culminates in Christ, particularly through His unblemished suffering. The entire world remains engulfed in darkness, with every individual being deceitful, while the Lord came to redeem the first Adam. Let us implore God to bestow upon us the Holy Spirit, enabling us to draw near to Him and to honor Him, as we seek to quell the wickedness—the very sin residing within our souls and bodies. He renders this salvation unfathomable to those who perpetually yearn for Him, hoping and searching for His presence.